Psychology Grad Dissects Discrimination

Matthew Hunsinger ’01 is so passionate about what causes stereotyping, prejudice, and discrimination that he’s made a career of it. As assistant professor of psychology at Mary Baldwin College, he studies the factors that influence the way people feel toward those of different races, ethnicities, genders, and sexual orientations.

His research brought him back to the University of Mary Washington this fall, where he was the guest of the Department of Psychology as its 2011 Graduate-in-Residence.

During the three-day visit, Hunsinger spoke to UMW psychology classes, met with students interested in pursuing careers in experimental social psychology, and gave a public lecture called Paths to Improving Intergroup Relations: Decreasing Intergroup Bias in a Diverse World.

He lives in Staunton, Va., where he teaches social cognition, cognitive psychology, conflict resolution, and learning and behavior. After receiving a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Mary Washington, he earned a master’s degree in cognitive science from Illinois State University and a doctorate in experimental social psychology from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst.

Besides studying the causes of stereotyping, prejudice, and discrimination, Hunsinger enjoys hiking, yoga, dancing, working out, and playing drums.